A 2-year-old presents with barking cough and inspiratory stridor at rest. Temperature is 38.1°C, RR 36, SpO2 96%, and there is moderate indrawing.

Question

A 2-year-old presents with barking cough and inspiratory stridor at rest. Temperature is 38.1°C, RR 36, SpO2 96%, and there is moderate indrawing. The child is alert and sitting with the parent. What is the most appropriate initial management?

Accepted Answer

Give oral dexamethasone and nebulised epinephrine with observation

Answer

Give antibiotics for bacterial tracheitis as first-line therapy

Answer

Use salbutamol nebulisers as definitive therapy

Answer

Perform immediate throat swab while supine

Answer

Discharge without treatment because oxygen saturation is normal

Moderate croup — RCPSC EM MCQ

A 2-year-old presents with barking cough and inspiratory stridor at rest. Temperature is 38.1°C, RR 36, SpO2 96%, and there is moderate indrawing. The child is alert and sitting with the parent. What is the most appropriate initial management?